Abstract
Objective: The present study examined the relationship between two distinct subfactors of spatial ability and performance in an information search task modeled on browsing the Web. Background: Previous studies have found relationships between various measures of spatial ability and performance in a wide variety of computer-based tasks. Method: In the search task 101 participants (18-29 years of age) searched for the answer to a question by navigating the system. They completed the experimental task as well as a battery of cognitive ability measures that included two different measures of spatial ability. Results: The results indicate that spatial orientation ability was related to performance with tasks that were high in their navigational requirement (engendered by the use of a novel aid), whereas spatial visualization was unrelated to performance in any task condition. Conclusion: A closer inspection of the cognitive requirements of a task may reveal what interventions could be most useful when designing computer systems or developing training programs. Application: Given the unique differences between the different spatial abilities, the current results suggest the design of navigational aids that place less demand on spatial orientation ability.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 154-165 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Human Factors |
Volume | 48 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Mar 2006 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Human Factors and Ergonomics
- Applied Psychology
- Behavioral Neuroscience